Sacrament of Baptism (Infants)
Having a Baby? – What a blessing! It is most appropriate to provide children with the grace of the Sacrament of Baptism and to welcome them into the community of faith. For first-time parents or parents who have not attended a class in over five years, formation is required regarding Christian parenting and the teaching of the Church. Pre-Baptism instructions are offered each month at the following local parishes:
- St. Martha’s, April and Sept
- St Paul’s, Feb and Aug
- St. Bernard-St. Mary, May and Nov
- Visitation of Mary, Oct and Dec
Please remember that a sponsor (godparent) assists the parents to bring their child up in the Catholic faith by their own Christian example. Only one sponsor is required for baptism. That person must be a fully-initiated, practicing, registered Catholic who can obtain a “sponsor letter” from their parish. Christians of other denominations may serve as a “Christian Witness” and must also provide evidence of their church membership.
RCIA — Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming Catholic, please call the Parish Office. Deacon Ray DiMascio can answer any initial questions you may have, and any about the process known as RCIA. RCIA meets every Sunday at the 10 am Mass with sessions following at the Newman Center. Check out the RCIA blog HERE.
Sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion)
Preparation to receive the Lord in the Eucharist is conducted through our school programs for children who are at least seven years of age. Adults can learn more about this Sacrament through the RCIA program. The Eucharist which is celebrated at every Mass is the “source and summit” of the Church; the very Presence of Christ in our midst.
Sacrament of Confirmation
Youth or adults seeking to be fully-initiated into the Church, can call the Parish Office to obtain information on preparing for this sacrament. This Sacrament is celebrated annually at the parish and administered by a bishop.
Sacrament of Penance (Confession)
Jesus breathed on the Apostles and sent them out to forgive or retain sins. Those seeking the forgiveness of God and healing in their lives can find grace in this Sacrament. A priest is available on Saturday afternoons at 3:00 PM in the church or by appointment during the week. Call the Parish Office to schedule a time.
Sacrament of Marriage
St. Bernard-St. Mary Church is a wonderful place for a wedding in Akron.
Couples intending to Marry should consult a priest or deacon here at St. Bernard at least six months before the desired date. We will assist you with marriage counseling and preparation as required by the Diocese and help you start your marriage journey with a good spiritual foundation. We look forward to helping you with your wedding.
Sacrament of Holy Orders
Is God calling you to be a priest or deacon? There are a number of people who can help you discern where God is calling you to be fulfilled in life. Call the Parish Office for more information.
You may also be discerning a vocation in a consecrated or religious lifestyle. A life dedicated to the Lord in prayer and service may be an answer to the Church’s prayer. If you are interested in more information on being a nun, religious sister or brother, please contact the Parish Office for more information.
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick (or Communion)
When a parishoner is confined to home or hospital because of illness, advanced age or infirmity, please call the Parish Office to arrange for Holy Communion at home. When one is seriously ill, not necessarily in danger of death, the healing presence of the Lord should be requested in the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. Please call the Parish Office to arrange a time for a priest to visit. This Sacrament is also celebrated communally at Mass at specified times during the year.
When a parishioner is confined to home, nursing home, or hospital because of illness or advanced age, please call the Parish Office to arrange for Holy Communion to be brought to the home.
